The Bill Murray band is making major waves in 2025. Officially known as Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers, the group has transformed from a playful side project into a full-fledged touring act drawing packed crowds across the United States. From energetic blues covers to classic rock moments, the band’s shows have become one of the most unexpected entertainment stories of the year.
A Fresh Chapter for Bill Murray
Bill Murray has long been known for his love of music, often surprising fans with impromptu performances. But in early 2025, he took this passion to the next level by stepping onto the stage as part of a real band. The Bill Murray band officially kicked off its national tour in January with two sold-out shows in Chicago. These concerts marked the beginning of a months-long series of performances that have carried the group across major cities and beloved venues.
Unlike a one-time celebrity novelty act, Murray’s involvement has been consistent. He tours with the group, performs at nearly every show, and plays a genuine role on stage. His musical journey, once a casual pastime, is now a centerpiece of his public appearances this year.
The Band Lineup: A Blend of Comedy and Blues Power
The Bill Murray band is not just a vehicle for Murray’s personality. It features a powerhouse lineup of seasoned blues and rock musicians who bring authenticity and skill to every performance.
Key Members
- Bill Murray – Vocals and percussion. He contributes tambourine, bongos, shakers, and occasionally steps up for lead vocals on select songs.
- Mike Zito – Renowned guitarist and vocalist with a decorated blues career.
- Albert Castiglia – Acclaimed guitarist and vocalist, bringing high-energy solos and vocal grit to the stage.
Supporting Musicians
- A skilled rhythm section featuring experienced bassists and drummers who keep the grooves tight.
- A horn section led by veteran saxophone and keyboard players that add depth to the band’s sound.
- Occasional appearances by guest guitarists and well-known touring musicians, making each show a bit unique.
This lineup gives the Bill Murray band its distinct blend of humor, personality, and serious musicianship.
Setlists: Classic Rock Meets Soulful Blues
The Bill Murray band focuses primarily on classic rock and blues covers, performed with a relaxed but heartfelt approach. Typical setlists include a mix of songs by artists such as Bob Dylan, The Kinks, Wilson Pickett, and the Paul Butterfield Blues Band.
Rather than taking over as the dominant lead singer, Murray often supports the music by playing percussion and joining in on choruses. On certain songs, however, he steps up to sing, bringing his unmistakable personality to the performance. His stage presence is warm and playful, and he interacts freely with both the musicians and the audience.
Each show typically lasts around 90 to 100 minutes. The setlists may shift from city to city, but the core themes remain rooted in blues traditions and classic rock nostalgia.
2025 Tour Dates and Highlights
The 2025 tour began in Chicago at Thalia Hall in early January, where Murray’s hometown crowd gave the band a hero’s welcome. From there, the Bill Murray band has embarked on a coast-to-coast journey that includes stops in major cities such as:
- San Francisco, California
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Austin, Texas
- New York City, New York
- Des Moines, Iowa
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Louisville, Kentucky
- Cincinnati, Ohio
Each stop has drawn strong ticket sales, often selling out well in advance. In St. Louis, the band delivered one of its most memorable shows of the year, where Murray joined the horn section onstage before stepping up to lead a crowd sing-along. In Minneapolis, their theater performance highlighted the group’s evolving chemistry, with extended guitar solos and tight improvisational jams.
The tour is set to continue through the end of 2025, with additional dates planned for November and December. One of the most anticipated upcoming shows will take place in Cincinnati, where the band will close out a busy fall schedule.
Bill Murray’s Role On Stage
While Bill Murray’s vocals are not those of a trained singer, his onstage role is central. He acts as both musician and master of ceremonies, blending music with moments of storytelling, humor, and crowd interaction. Audiences don’t come expecting a polished rock star—they come for the atmosphere, the musical chemistry, and the joy that radiates from the stage.
Murray often begins shows at the back of the stage on percussion, gradually stepping forward throughout the set. His presence is both humble and commanding. He doesn’t try to overshadow the professional musicians around him; instead, he elevates their performance with his energy and unexpected flair.
Audience Reception
The reception to the Bill Murray band has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans appreciate the sincerity of the project—what could have been a quick celebrity gimmick has turned into a genuine musical collaboration. Concertgoers often describe the experience as “joyful,” “authentic,” and “completely unexpected.”
Many attendees come out of curiosity, only to leave impressed by the quality of the musicianship and the fun, communal vibe of the concerts. While some note that Murray’s singing isn’t technically strong, most agree that it’s the spirit of the performance, not vocal perfection, that makes the shows memorable.
Beyond the Tour: Media Appearances
In addition to the tour, Bill Murray has made a number of public appearances that reflect his growing role in music. In mid-2025, he appeared on national late-night television, playing percussion alongside a guest band. His musical cameos have become part of his public persona this year, adding to the buzz surrounding the band.
The group has also made special appearances at festivals and unique events. One standout moment came during a summer comedy and music festival, where Murray joined the band for an extended jam session that surprised both fans and fellow performers.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Like any unconventional musical project, the Bill Murray band faces a few challenges. Murray’s primary career remains acting and entertainment, so scheduling can be complex. Additionally, maintaining momentum beyond the novelty factor requires consistent touring and possibly original material in the future.
Despite these challenges, the band’s trajectory suggests staying power. The strong ticket sales, enthusiastic fan response, and Murray’s obvious enjoyment on stage indicate that this is more than a temporary experiment. There are hints that the group may explore recording sessions or expanded festival appearances in the coming year.
Why the Bill Murray Band Works
The success of the Bill Murray band comes down to authenticity. Murray doesn’t pretend to be a rock star. He joins forces with genuine musicians, respects the music, and brings a sense of fun and surprise to each show. For audiences, it’s a rare chance to see a beloved cultural figure enjoying himself in a new and creative way—without pretense.
The combination of Murray’s charisma, the band’s exceptional talent, and the timeless power of blues and rock music has created something unique. It’s part concert, part comedy, and entirely engaging.
The Bill Murray band continues to grow, surprise, and delight audiences across the country. If you haven’t experienced their live shows yet, keep an eye on upcoming tour stops—you might just catch one of the most unexpected musical acts of the year.